(DoD) A specifically trained and qualified aviation officer who exercises control from the air of aircraft engaged in close air support of ground troops. The forward air controller (airborne) is normally an airborne extension of the tactical air control party. A qualified and current forward air controller (airborne) will be recognized across the Department of Defense as capable and authorized to perform terminal attack control. Also called FAC(A).
Department of Defense Dictionary of Military and Associated Terms. 31 January 2011.
| APA | Military Dictionary (DoD). (2011). forward air controller (airborne). Retrieved September 23, 2026, from http://smartdefine.org/forward_air_controller_(airborne)/definitions/1961824 |
| Chicago | Military Dictionary (DoD). 2011. "forward air controller (airborne)" http://smartdefine.org/forward_air_controller_(airborne)/definitions/1961824 (accessed September 23, 2026). |
| Harvard | Military Dictionary (DoD) 2011, forward air controller (airborne), Smart Define, viewed 23 September, 2026, <http://smartdefine.org/forward_air_controller_(airborne)/definitions/1961824>. |
| MLA | Military Dictionary (DoD). "forward air controller (airborne)" 4 April 2011. Web. 23 September 2026. <http://smartdefine.org/forward_air_controller_(airborne)/definitions/1961824> |